Have you ever considered that the loose change jingling in your pocket might be worth a small fortune? Certain rare dimes have fetched staggering amounts at auctions, turning ordinary individuals into unexpected beneficiaries of numismatic treasures. Let’s delve into seven of these valuable dimes, one of which is valued at over $900,000.
1. 1894-S Barber Dime
With only 24 specimens minted, the 1894-S Barber Dime stands as one of the rarest coins in U.S. history. Its scarcity has driven prices to astronomical levels, with some examples selling for up to $1.9 million.
2. 1916-D Mercury Dime
The 1916-D Mercury Dime had a limited mintage of 264,000 coins, making it highly sought after by collectors. In pristine condition, this dime can command prices ranging from $650 to $40,000.
3. 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime
Originating from the Carson City Mint, the 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime is exceedingly rare. Only one known example exists, which sold for $632,500 at auction.
4. 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime
A minting error led to the creation of the 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime, lacking the ‘S’ mint mark. Only two such dimes are known to exist, with one selling for $506,250 in 2024.
5. 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime
Similar to the 1975 version, the 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime was mistakenly struck without the ‘S’ mint mark. These dimes are highly prized, with some fetching up to $25,200.
6. 1942/1 Mercury Dime Overdate
The 1942/1 Mercury Dime features an overdate error, where the ‘2’ is struck over a ‘1’. This anomaly makes it a collector’s gem, valued between $300 and $26,000, depending on condition.
7. 1919-D Mercury Dime
The 1919-D Mercury Dime is notable for its rarity in higher grades. While circulated versions are valued between $2.50 and $264, uncirculated specimens can reach up to $3,000.
Summary Table of Rare Dimes and Their Values
| Dime | Mintage | Estimated Value Range | Notable Sale Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1894-S Barber Dime | 24 | Up to $1.9 million | $1.9 million |
| 1916-D Mercury Dime | 264,000 | $650 – $40,000 | $40,000 |
| 1873-CC No Arrows Liberty Seated Dime | 1 | Up to $632,500 | $632,500 |
| 1975 No-S Roosevelt Dime | 2 | Up to $506,250 | $506,250 |
| 1968 No-S Roosevelt Dime | Unknown | Up to $25,200 | $25,200 |
| 1942/1 Mercury Dime Overdate | Unknown | $300 – $26,000 | $26,000 |
| 1919-D Mercury Dime | 9,939,000 | $2.50 – $3,000 | $3,000 |
Note: Values are approximate and subject to change based on market conditions and coin grading.
The next time you come across a dime, take a moment to inspect it closely. You might just be holding a piece of numismatic history worth a substantial sum. Familiarizing yourself with these rare dimes and their distinguishing features could turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary one.
FAQs
How can I determine if my dime is valuable?
Examine your dime for specific features such as mint marks, dates, and any errors. Comparing these attributes to known rare dimes can help identify its value.
Where can I get my dime appraised?
Consult a professional coin grading service or a reputable numismatic expert to assess your coin’s authenticity and condition.
Are there other valuable dimes not listed here?
Yes, several dimes, like the 1916-D Mercury Dime and 1921-D Mercury Dime, are also highly sought after by collectors.
What factors affect a dime’s value?
A dime’s value is influenced by its rarity, condition (grade), minting errors, and historical significance.